tim tebow

There have been quite a few sports stories that have consumed the news outlets and ESPN over the past few months. From lockouts to trade talks and the ever-changing landscape of sports as we know them, there continues to be big news. The story lately that consumes not just sports but all news is the unexpected success of Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos over the last 2 months.

The former University of Florida quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner has had many doubters throughout his NFL career, myself included. The critics say he lacks the fundamentals and throwing ability of an NFL quarterback, that he is more of a fit at the running back position. He has turned many of those doubters into believers by going 7-1 and leading 4th quarter and overtime comebacks on a consistent basis. While I am still skeptical that he will have a long career as a Quarterback in the current NFL, he may be changing what an NFL quarterback is.

So I have been mulling around a concept and want to pose the following questions: What is more important, having the X-factor or mastering the ABCs? This question can be used throughout life and business as well.

In sales, you can read all the books and learn everything there is to know about selling but if you don’t have the X-factor (Ability to close) you will not be successful.

In looking for a job, you can have an amazing resumé and job qualifications but if you show up to an interview in a t-shirt and jeans, and lack communication skills you probably won’t get it.

In job performance, dressing to impress, having great communication skills and a good relationship with your boss will help you succeed but if you lack the job skills and desire to continue developing yourself you may get passed over for the promotion or lose your job as the company changes course.

If you wait until the last minute to finish every project and put a huge strain on your team, will you be looked at as successful for getting every project done or a bad team manager? I guess that depends on the X-factor and your ability to motivate.

So, it may just depend on the situation. Of course everyone would want the best of both worlds, but it is not every day that you can find an Aaron Rodgers. If you had to choose one, what would you prefer?